Settai

Settai is a Tamil word that refers to a traditional South Indian wedding feast. It is a significant part of wedding celebrations, where a large number of guests are invited to partake in a specially prepared meal. The settai is not just about food; it is a communal gathering that symbolizes the union of two families and the blessings bestowed upon the newlyweds.

The menu for a settai is typically elaborate and vegetarian, featuring a wide array of dishes. Common items include various types of rice preparations such as sambar sadam, rasam sadam, and curd rice, accompanied by an assortment of side dishes. These sides often consist of different vegetable curries (poriyal), lentil-based preparations (kootu), fried snacks (vada, bajji), sweets (payasam, sweet pongal), and a variety of pickles and chutneys. The meal is usually served on a banana leaf, which is considered auspicious and adds to the traditional dining experience.

The preparation of a settai is a collective effort, often involving family members and close friends who help in cooking and serving the food. The scale of the settai can vary depending on the economic and social standing of the families, but the essence remains the same – to offer a generous and delicious meal to all attendees. It is a time of joy, fellowship, and celebration, marking a new beginning for the couple. The settai is more than just sustenance; it's a cultural expression of hospitality and community bonding.